Relative Value Unit (RVU)

A Relative Value Unit (RVU) is a standardized measure used in healthcare to quantify the value of medical services. It takes into account the complexity of the procedure, the time and skill required, and the resources used. RVUs help determine how much providers are reimbursed for their services, ensuring payments reflect the effort involved. Different services have different RVU values, and these are adjusted for geographic location. In essence, RVUs serve as a common currency that helps standardize and compare the value and reimbursement of various medical procedures across the healthcare system.